Regional Site Lab Support Scientist

Reporting to the Regional Lab Governance Manager, the Site Lab Support Scientists are responsible for site lab governance through consulting services for all Mars Incorporated segments operating in their region under service. The main customers of the Site Lab Support Scientist are Supply (Site laboratories), Commercial, and R&D functions.

The role of the Regional Site Lab Support Scientist is to provide training and support to associates of the region's site laboratories.

What are we looking for?

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Engineering, Biochemistry, related areas or equivalent

• 3+ years of experience in physicochemical analysis in food (or related) industry

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Food Engineering, Biochemistry, or related areas

• Knowledge of industrial laboratory routine

• Working knowledge of ISO 9001 and/or 17025

• Knowledge in food safety and nutrition is a plus

• Strong communication skills, written and spoken in English and Spanish, and Portuguese

• Strong report writing skills

• Understanding of the main scientific principles associated with food systems

• In conjunction with a general knowledge of food science and chemistry, in-depth knowledge of a "broad base" of analytical techniques

• Demonstrated experience and skill in the use of the following: Computers, spreadsheet software (preferably MS Excel)

• Excellent organizational skills to adapt to fluctuating workloads while maintaining proper attention to detail

• Demonstrated ability to follow established laboratory safety & quality procedures (i.e. to maintain accurate records,) and to read & write clearly & accurately

• Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to work independently or as a member of a team

What will be your key responsibilities?

1. Site Laboratory Consulting Support

• Provide technical training for rapid raw material methods and in-process controls for the key users & coordinators of the site laboratories

• Provide training packages and guidance on how site lab key users can train and validate other associates regarding testing methods

• Offer support in the selection of new equipment following the criteria defined according to global test methods

• Provide support for troubleshooting related to technical issues with testing and instrumentation; possible training may be necessary following troubleshooting

• Ensure completion and monitor results of Quality Assurance programs (i.e. Ring Trials, AQC, BIPEA, etc.)

• Support site laboratories in the implementation and maintenance of the MGS Site Laboratory Quality Standard

• Ensure submission, guide the correct reporting, and monitor results of the site laboratories metrics as part of the MGS Quarterly Metrics program

• Provide consultation after the site laboratory has performed investigation as per the MGS/BU service level agreement

2. Audit

• Perform technical audits at site laboratories according to the requirements of the MGS Site Laboratory Quality Standard

• Meet the deadlines for the execution of audits according to the annual audit plan, as well as the deadlines to finalize the reports and opening/closing of CAPAs in the NEXUS system per the MGS Laboratory Audit Program

• Evaluate CAPA effectiveness

• Keep up to date with the training and calibrations required for the position of auditor to site laboratories

3. Quality and Safety Management System:

• Proactively engage in a culture of safe laboratory behaviors, serve as a model of best practice, and adhere to safety procedures within the laboratory

• Ensure proper documentation of procedures, consulting reports, audit observations, drafting documents and keeping records in their proper systems (Service Now, NEXUS, etc.), using the guidelines defined in the Regional Laboratory Quality Management System and ISO 17025 requirements

• Keep up to date with current technologies and practices by attending meetings and training when indicated

• Contribute to the hygiene and organization of the laboratory, adhering to good practices in its work environment

• Follow the Regional Laboratory's Health & Safety and Environment requirements

• Proceed with the correct disposal of waste

• Actively participate in the resolution of non-conformities, corrective actions and preventive actions, as well as in the continuous improvement of Management Systems related to Safety, Quality and Environment

4. Team Collaboration:

• Work collaboratively with the Regional Lab Chemistry Labs, CoE Site Governance, and other regional Site Lab Support Scientists

• Work as a team, including maintaining open and honest communication and respecting the confidentiality of any laboratory information, respecting the security rules and the Mars Principles

• Support global team in the development of new methods as well as extension of existing methods to new matrices

5. Equipment Maintenance:

• Ensure the maintenance and calibration of equipment and glassware belonging to the teams' training and consulting processes of site laboratories

• Troubleshoot and resolve equipment issues immediately

What can you expect from Mars? 

• Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by The Five Principles.  

• Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.

• Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.

• An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

Mars does not sponsor visas for this role.

This position is not eligible for relocation benefits.

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